Cuff Placement Research Articles

T-shaped myofascial incision for Chiari I malformation surgery without dural closure in children: Technical note

BackgroundLike in all posterior fossa surgeries the avoidance of cerebrospinal fluid leaks (CSF) leaks is of paramount importance for foramen magnum decompression in Chiari I malformation in children. The present technical note decribes the experience with the creation of a T-shaped myofascial cuff to reduce the risk of postoperative CSF leaks. MethodsThe medical records of 98 children were evaluated. They underwent foramen magnum decompression without dural closure using a T-shaped myofascial cuff whose incision lines run completely within the fascia and the muscles not extending beyond their attachment line to the bone. ResultsThere were 2 CSF leaks and no infections in 98 operated patients. The follow-up was between 4 and 48 months. ConclusionsThe placement of a T-shaped myofascial cuff allows for watertight closure of the muscles and the fascia which is likely to reduce the rate of CSF leaks in pediatric Chiari I patients operated on without closure of the dura.

Single-component artificial urinary sphincter: Outcomes from one centre in Portugal.

Radical prostate cancer treatment is the predominant cause of iatrogenic stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in men, significantly impacting their quality of life (QoL). This prospective single-center study in Portugal aimed to evaluate the outcomes of men with moderate-to-severe SUI treated with a single-component artificial urinary sphincter (AUS). Male patients with iatrogenic moderate-to-severe SUI, determined by a 24-hour pad weight test, were included. The single-component device comprises a cuff linked to a pump unit through a kink-resistant tube. The implantation involved perineal incision for cuff placement and an inguinal incision for pump and tank positioning within the scrotum. Complications, pad usage, perioperative complications (Clavien-Dindo classification), and quality of life assessment using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) questionnaire were documented. Between May 2021 and March 2023, 20 consecutive single-component AUS insertions were conducted at a Portuguese urology department. Follow-up concluded in July 2023, with a mean follow-up duration of 15 months (range: 5-27). Four patients experienced complications necessitating device revision or removal (erosion = 2, infection = 1, mechanical failure = 1). Social continence (0/1 pad/day) was achieved in 70% (14/20 patients), while 30% (6/20 patients) experienced incontinence. Perioperatively, one patient was classified as grade 2, while the remaining were grade 0/1 in the Clavien-Dindo classification. The mean ICIQ-SF score reduction was 10.5 points. The single-component AUS shows promising efficacy in managing moderate-to-severe male SUI, offering a good success rate, acceptable complications, improved QoL, and a straightforward surgical procedure.

Comparison of the ClearSight™ finger cuff monitor versus invasive arterial blood pressure measurement in elective cardiac surgery patients: a prospective observational study.

To determine the acceptability of the ClearSight™ system (Edwards Lifesciences Corp., Irvine, CA, USA) for continuous blood pressure monitoring during elective cardiac surgery compared with arterial catheterization. We enrolled 30 patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery in a prospective observational study. Blood pressure measurements were recorded every 10 sec intraoperatively. We determined agreement based on the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) recommendations. Statistical analysis included fixed bias (difference of measurements between methods), percentage error (accuracy between ClearSight measurement and expected measurement from arterial line), and interchangeability (ability to substitute ClearSight monitor without effecting overall outcome of analysis). We used a paired samples t test to compare the time required for placing each monitor. We found fixed bias in the differences between the ClearSight monitor and invasive arterial blood pressure measurement in systolic blood pressure (SBP; mean difference, 8.7; P < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP; mean difference, -2.2; P < 0.001), but not in mean arterial pressure (MAP; mean difference, -0.5; P < 0.001). Bland-Altman plots showed that the means of the limits of agreement were greater than 5mm Hg for SBP, DBP, and MAP. The percentage errors for SBP, DBP, and MAP were lower than the cutoff we calculated from the invasive arterial blood pressure measurements. Average interchangeability rates were 38% for SBP, 50% for DBP, and 50% for MAP. Placement of the ClearSight finger cuff was significantly faster compared with arterial catheterization (mean [standard deviation], 1.7 [0.6] min vs 5.6 [4.1] min; P < 0.001). In this prospective observational study, we did not find the ClearSight system to be an acceptable substitute for invasive arterial blood pressure measurement in elective cardiac surgery patients according to AAMI guidelines. Nevertheless, based on statistical standards, there is evidence to suggest otherwise. ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT05825937 ); first submitted 11 April 2023.

The fragile urethra: what to do next?-a narrative review.

Although the artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) has demonstrated successful outcomes in treating male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) for the past five decades, this procedure also carries inherent risks, including recurrent SUI, device malfunction, local tissue compromise, and infection/erosion, all of which may require revision surgery with or without device replacement. Patients that are at the highest risk for such untoward events often possess unhealthy urethral tissue (termed a "fragile urethra") that is compromised and unable to provide optimal cuff coaptation and continence. Accordingly, there are several techniques to address recalcitrant SUI in the setting of a fragile urethra to afford an improved chance of return to continence. Here, we review characteristics of patients that are at higher risk for an untoward outcome following AUS implantation and further define strategies to promote optimal success with device implantation. The aim of this paper is to review the available literature and describe surgical options for male SUI in patients with known or anticipated urethral tissue compromise. A thorough literature review was completed by querying PubMed for relevant articles. Search terms included artificial urinary sphincter, failure, recalcitrant, urethral atrophy, fragile urethra, revision, radiation, cystectomy, incontinence, and/or urethroplasty published between 1975 and 2022. Options for management of the fragile urethra include cuff relocation, cuff downsizing, tandem cuff placement, transcorporal cuff placement, pressure regulating balloon exchange with increased or decreased pressure, bulbospongiosus preservation, sub-cuff ventral capsulotomy, urethral wrapping with graft, and in select cases, urinary diversion, or complete device removal with a return to SUI. Proper patient selection is paramount to optimize outcomes. Advantages and disadvantages of each strategy are reviewed. Numerous techniques are viable options for patients with recalcitrant SUI in the setting of a fragile urethra, but high-quality evidence with reproducible outcomes for many of these strategies remain limited. Proper patient selection as well as adequate counseling by experienced implant surgeons may help optimize outcomes. Further multi-institutional investigations with longer term outcomes are needed to improve patient selection and counseling with shared decision-making prior to any intervention.

Artificial urinary sphincter for neurogenic urinary incontinence: a narrative review.

The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is most known for its use in the treatment of moderate to severe post-prostatectomy stress urinary incontinence. However, another lesser-known indication includes stress incontinence related to intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) in the neurogenic bladder population. The purpose of this review is to discuss specific technical considerations related to device implantation in this population, efficacy, durability, and complications. We performed a non-systematic literature review using the PubMed Database to identify articles specifically related to treatment of neurogenic urinary incontinence using an artificial urinary sphincter. More proximal placement of the cuff at the bladder neck is preferred in the neurogenic population due to higher rates of erosion and complications related to frequent clean intermittent catheterization or cystoscopic procedures when placed along the bulbar urethra. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic cuff placement has emerged as a safe and effective alternative to open surgery in select patients. Although continence rates are highly variable due the subjectivity of the term, functional continence (≤1 pad, ± nighttime incontinence) is reported to be between 75-90%. The need for secondary surgery for explanation with or without revision/replacement is higher in neurogenic patients compared to non-neurogenic patients. Neurogenic urinary incontinence is a complex condition due to the interplay of urethral resistance and bladder function/compliance. While there are a variety of strategies to treat neurogenic incontinence, high quality data from direct comparisons are lacking. Although AUS comes with a high revision rate, functional outcomes for continence with bladder neck placement are promising in this population.

Comparing the lifespan of virgin artificial urinary sphincters in radiated patients: transcorporal vs. standard placement.

To compare the lifespan of first transcorporal cuff(TC) placement of an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) versus standard placement(SP) in patients with prior radiotherapy (RT) for prostate cancer(PCa). We reviewed first (virgin) AUS placements from two high-volume care centers between 1/2011 and 1/2021, including PCa patients with RT history. AUS lifespan was assessed via the hazard ratio of device explantation and/or revision within a ten-year timeframe for the TC vs. SP approaches. Chi-square, Fisher's exact, and t-tests compared clinicodemographic variables. Kaplan-Meier curve compared TC and SP lifespan. 85/314 men with AUS met inclusion criteria, with 38.8%(33/85) in the TC group and 61.2%(52/85) in the SP group. Median ages were 69.8(IQR = 65.2-73.6) and 67.1(61.6-72.9), respectively, p = 0.17. Over a median follow up of 51.9 (15.8-86.1) and 80.4(28.1-128.3) months for the TC and SP, overall, 12(36.4%) TC devices were removed (four[12.1%] due to mechanical failures; eight[24.2%] erosions, and two[6.1%] infections) vs. 29(55.8%) in the SP group (14[26.9%] mechanical failures; 11[21.1%] erosions, and five[9.6%] infections). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two approaches, with HR = 0.717, 95% CI 0.37-1.44, p = 0.35. The calculated device survival probabilities for the TC vs. SP at one, five, and 10 years were 78.8% vs. 76.9%, 69.3% vs. 58.7%, and 62.1% vs. 46.7%, respectively. TC cuff insertion for the first AUS implantation in pre-radiated patients showed to be comparable to SP when it comes to device survival, with comparable complication rates. Current guidance for approach selection is primarily based on patient selection and surgeon preference.

Effects of General Anesthesia on Noninvasively Measured Central and Peripheral Blood Pressure: A Prospective, Observational-based Cross-over Study

Abstract Background: Blood pressure (BP) monitoring is the basic hemodynamic parameter necessary to monitor the hemodynamic changes occurring under general anesthesia (GA) to maintain adequate perfusion to major organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. Physicians heavily rely upon peripheral hemodynamic measurements despite availability of devices suitable for measurement of central blood pressure through non-invasive manner paving a gap in the literature concerning the effects of GA on central pressure. Aims and Objective: In this comparative cross-over study, authors have aimed to find out the degree of changes in central and peripheral BP after the introduction of GA among adult patients of different age groups scheduled for routine surgical procedures with an objective to maintain vital functions more precisely – considering the fact that vital organ perfusions (heart, brain etc.,) depend more on the required values of CBP than that of PBP. Material &amp; Methods: Following approval from IEC, sixty adult patients with ASA physical status 1 or 2 undergoing routine surgical procedures under general anesthesia were enrolled in this prospective cross-over study where each patient was case as well control for measurement and comparison of his/her central and peripheral blood pressure. Patients, being divided into three groups as per age range - 20-40 years (Group A), 40-60 years (Group B), and 60-80 years (Group C) had their normal Riva Rocci BP cuff (Space Lab Inc. USA) placed in one arm for peripheral BP measurement and special Riva Rocci (Uscom Ltd., Australia).) BP cuff for on another arm for Central BP measurement. After patient’s arrival into operation theatre, baseline hemodynamic parameters were taken followed by sequential measurements of CBP and PBP with an interval of 2 minutes till 30-40 mins of operation. There were alternative measurements of these pressures with recording of data from either of the devices as mentioned for further comparison and analysis. Results: From baseline values, it was found that all the three groups were comparable in respect of age, height, weight, PBP and CBP. When measured pressure of all groups combined, that there was a fall in both Central and Peripheral SBP as well as DBP after giving intravenous induction agent (propofol) and rise in both central and peripheral SBP and DBP after laryngoscopy and intubation. Degree of systolic blood pressure change in both peripheral &amp; central that is fall of BP in 3rd reading &amp; rise of BP in 5th reading was greatest in group C, followed by group B, then group A [p - 0.005]. While comparing three subgroups, the baseline Augmentation Index (AI) was highest in group C and lowest in group A. Following the administration of general anesthesia (GA), the change in Augmentation Index (ΔAI), was most pronounced in the third reading corresponding to the time after the administration of the induction agent. Conclusion: Measurement of CBP through peripheral placement of cuff is a unique feasible method to detect real changes of circulation with actual pressure in vital organs. Thus, the study suggests that central blood pressure measurements can provide a more accurate reflection of hemodynamic changes during general anesthesia, especially in older individuals or those with different cardiovascular conditions allowing better vital management of body circulation.

The impact of sphygmomanometer placement and cuff placement on blood pressure measurements.

Hypertension is the most significant global risk factor for mortality and morbidity, making standardized blood pressure measurement crucial. To investigate whether the location of blood pressure monitors and the positioning of cuffs yield differing results in blood pressure measurements. Patients admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang College between 1 January 2022 and 30 June 2023 were enrolled in this study and randomly allocated into four groups. These groups were defined based on the positioning of monitoring equipment as follows: varied placements of cuffs on automatic blood pressure monitors, different heights for mercury column blood pressure monitors, varied heights for automatic blood pressure monitors, and different orientations for the cuff airbag tubes on electrocardiogram monitors. Blood pressure was measured and recorded for each group, followed by an analysis of the variations in readings across the different setups. In the first cohort of 763 individuals, mean systolic blood pressure measured at the standard upper arm site was 128.8 ± 10.5 mmHg, compared to 125.3 ± 10.4 mmHg at the elbow fossa. The corresponding diastolic pressures were 79.2 ± 10.7 and 75.0 ± 10.6 mmHg, respectively. The difference in systolic pressure between these positions was significant at 3.48 ± 3.22 mmHg (t₁ = 29.91, p₁ < 0.001) and for diastolic pressure at 4.23 ± 1.31 mmHg (t₂ = 88.98, p₂ < 0.001). For the subsequent groups, involving 253, 312, and 225 individuals, respectively, blood pressure measurements were analyzed and compared across different methods within each group. All p-values exceeded 0.05, indicating no statistically significant differences. Blood pressure values measured at the elbow fossa position using an upper arm-type automatic sphygmomanometer were found to be lower than those measured at the upper arm position, with a difference of 3.48 mmHg for systolic and 4.23 mmHg for diastolic pressures. It is therefore essential to position the cuff correctly, specifically 2-3 cm above the elbow fossa, when utilizing an upper arm-type automatic sphygmomanometer for blood pressure monitoring. Conversely, the placement of the mercury column sphygmomanometer and the automated sphygmomanometer at varying heights had no significant effect on blood pressure readings. Similarly, the orientation of the electrocardiogram's cuffed balloon tube, whether facing upward or downward, did not influence blood pressure measurement outcomes.

Characteristics of lower airway parameters in an adult Asian population related to endotracheal tube design: a cadaveric study

The risk of endotracheal tube (ETT) placement includes endobronchial intubation and subglottic injury. This study aimed to describe the lengths of lower airway parameters related to cuff location and vocal cord markings in different adult-sized ETTs. Eighty cadavers were examined for the lengths of the lower airway, including their correlations and linear regressions with height. Thirty adult-sized ETTs from seven different brands were examined for Mark-Cuff and Mark-Tip distances. The depth of ETT placement was simulated for each brand using vocal cord marking. The mean (standard deviation) lengths from the subglottis, trachea, vocal cord to mid- trachea, and vocal cord to carina were 24.2 (3.5), 97.9 (8.6), 73.2 (5.3), and 122.1 (9.0) mm, respectively. Airway lengths were estimated as: (1) subglottis (mm) = 0.173 * (height in cm) − 3.547; (2) vocal cord to mid-trachea (mm) = 0.28 * (height in cm) + 28.391. There were variations in the Mark-Cuff and Mark-Tip distances among different ETTs. In the simulation, endobronchial intubation ranged between 2.5 and 5% and the cuff in the subglottis ranged between 2.5 and 97.5%. In summary, the lower airway parameters were height-related. ETT placement using vocal cord marking puts the patient at a high risk of cuff placement in the subglottis.

Galectin-3 is involved in inflammation and fibrosis in arteriogenic erectile dysfunction via the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a multifunctional protein that has been linked to fibrosis and inflammation in the cardiovascular system. In this study, we examined the impact of Gal-3 on inflammation and fibrosis in patients with arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (A-ED) and the underlying mechanisms involved. To induce arterial injury, we utilized cuffs on the periaqueductal common iliac arteries of Sprague‒Dawley (SD) rats and administered a high-fat diet to co-induce local atherosclerosis. Our results showed that we successfully developed a novel A-ED model that was validated based on histological evidence. In vivo, the vascular lumen of rats subjected to a high-fat diet and cuff placement exhibited significant narrowing, accompanied by the upregulation of Gal-3, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MyD88) expression in the penile cavernosa. This led to the activation of nuclear factor kappa B 65 (NF-κB-p65), resulting in reduced intracavernosal pressure, endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression, and smooth muscle content, promoting inflammation and fibrosis. However, treatment with Gal-3 inhibitor-modified citrus pectin (MCP) significantly normalized those effects. In vitro, knocking down Gal-3 led to a significant reduction in TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB-p65 expression in corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs), decreasing inflammation levels. In conclusion, inhibiting Gal-3 may improve A-ED by reducing inflammation, endothelial injury, and fibrosis in the penile corpus cavernosum through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. These findings highlight the potential therapeutic target of Gal-3 in A-ED.

Automatic Calibration of a Device for Blood Pressure Waveform Measurement.

This article presents a prototype of a new, non-invasive, cuffless, self-calibrating blood pressure measuring device equipped with a pneumatic pressure sensor. The developed sensor has a double function: it measures the waveform of blood pressure and calibrates the device. The device was used to conduct proof-of-concept measurements on 10 volunteers. The main novelty of the device is the pneumatic pressure sensor, which works on the principle of a pneumatic nozzle flapper amplifier with negative feedback. The developed device does not require a cuff and can be used on arteries where cuff placement would be impossible (e.g., on the carotid artery). The obtained results showed that the systolic and diastolic pressure measurement errors of the proposed device did not exceed ±6.6% and ±8.1%, respectively.

Current surgical management of postprostatectomy incontinence — Workup, options and decision making

This article gives a current overview of surgical options and limits of surgical post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) therapy and reflects the contents of workshop 6 at the ICS meeting in Vienna, Austria 2022.The decision-making process in PPI requires consideration of various dimensions from presentation to determination of treatment. Patient factors include the severity of symptoms, age and health condition, comorbidities, and patient’s expectations. Also important are the type of prior prostate surgery, radiation therapy, and status of cure.Only an accurate diagnosis will lead to the most effective management option being chosen. An accurate history, standardized questionnaires, physical examination, and 24-hour pad-weights are essential. Transperineal ultrasound, urethrocystoscopy with a urethral repositioning test, and multichannel urodynamics are useful in assessing sphincter and bladder function, as well as the anastomotic region after radical prostatectomy.The effect of various treatment options, such as slings, balloons, and artificial hydraulic sphincters can now be evaluated with long-term studies. The most widely used type of sling is the two-arm fixed sling with a dry rate of 58% and overall improvement rate of 83% at 5 years. Prior pelvic irradiation may reduce the long-term success rate. Adjustable devices offer the opportunity of adaptation to a potentially changing degree of incontinence to meet individual patients’ needs. Adjustable male slings support the bulbar urethra with a minimal increase of urethral resistanceThe artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is the most predictably reliable treatment for men with moderate to severe stress incontinence with social continence rates of 79%. Device revision is required for recurrent incontinence with options including cuff repositioning, downsizing, or transcorporal cuff placement. Alternative hydraulic sphincter systems offer the possibility of postoperative adjustment by changing the intra-device pressure. Recent developments include electrical and remotely controlled devices not yet commercially available. Further factors of the decision-making process are the skills of the surgeon, individual preferences, and product availability.

Pencegahan Penularan Multi-Resisten Organisme (MRO) Melalui Manset Tekanan Darah

This study aims to explore interventions to prevent the occurrence of multi-resistant organisms (MRO) in patients with blood pressure cuff placement in special care rooms. This research method uses the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines with the Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, and SAGE databases. The results of the study found five types of interventions namely disinfection and decontamination with alcohol, addition of hydrogen peroxide in the sterilization process, cuff design with a barrier between the skin and the cuff, education and training programs for medical personnel, and development of standard procedure protocols. In conclusion, interventions to prevent the occurrence of multi-organism resistance in patients with blood pressure cuff placement do not only focus on equipment, but the knowledge and standard of cleaning procedures owned by health workers need to be improved and developed.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keywords: Blood Pressure Cuff, Prevention of Transmission, Multi-Organism Resistance (MRO)

Clinical Issues - July 2023.

Use of clean versus sterile pneumatic tourniquet cuffs Key words: clean, sterile, pneumatic tourniquet, incision site, cuff placement. Active shooter crisis preparedness Key words: active shooter preparedness, emergency response, active shooter event, evacuate, barricade. Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning parameters Key words: laminar airflow (LAF); unidirectional ultraclean air-delivery system; unidirectional downward airflow; turbulent; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system. Modifying directional air pressure settings Key words: directional air pressure, negative-pressure room, positive-pressure room, bronchoscopy, parameters.

Minimally Invasive Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Insertion with Intraoperative Ultrasound-Doppler Measurement of Rectus Muscle Width and Inferior Epigastric Artery Localization

Laparoscopic peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion is an established method for peritoneal dialysis catheter placement. One critical aspect of this procedure is rectus sheath tunneling. Proper peritoneal dialysis catheter incorporation within the abdominal wall is important for reducing pericatheter leaks and for proper peritoneal dialysis functioning. Particularly, accurate positioning of the internal cuff within the rectus muscle sheath is crucial to prevent potential dialysate fluid leakage. In the present report, we describe the utilization of intraoperative ultrasound as a valuable tool for determining the ideal location of the internal cuff and assessing the course of the inferior epigastric artery during rectus sheath tunneling. This technique aims to optimize the position of the internal cuff and minimize complications such as vessel injury and pericatheter leaks. Furthermore, we demonstrate that post-catheter insertion, ultrasound imaging offers valuable insights into evaluating the appropriate placement of the internal cuff, external subcutaneous cuff, and potential bleeding within the abdominal wall.

(537) Transcorporal Cuff vs Standard Cuff Placement of Artificial Urinary Sphincters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Introduction Long-term data suggests 1 in 5 patients will require artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) reoperation due to erosion, infection, or mechanical malfunction prior to the end of the natural lifespan of the device. Men with stress incontinence after radiation or prostatectomy are considered to have "fragile" urethras that are higher risk for AUS erosion. Transcorporal cuff placement (TCC) of artificial urinary sphincters (AUS) is thought to have a protective effect by avoiding direct contact with the urethra and thus avoiding erosion. Stress incontinence can detract from libido and overall sexual health and should be an important consideration in cancer survivorship. Objective The objective of the study was to determine if TCC has a protective effect in avoiding complications compared to standard cuff placement for AUS patients. Methods A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA criteria. The primary outcome was pooled incidence of complication, defined as explant, reoperation/revision, infection, erosion, or mechanical failure. Pooled incidence was calculated using a Der-Simonian-Laird binary random effects model with a Freeman-Tukey arcsine transformation. A total of 14 studies were included, of which 9 provided data for comparative analysis. Results Pooled data from 2240 patients revealed a complication rate of 20% (95% CI 0.14-0.28) (Figure 1). Data from 428 patients were included in the comparative analysis, which showed a 2.11 (95%CI 1.29-3.46) higher odds of explant with TCC compared to standard cuff placement (Figure 2). However, TCC was used mainly in patients with “fragile” urethras, a term used to describe patients with prior AUS erosion, radiation therapy, or other urethral surgeries. Conclusions The current data suggests that TCC may have a higher complication rate compared to standard cuff placement and is not protective against erosion. However, the TCC approach largely targeted patients with multiple risk factors for erosion. A prospective randomized trial comparing TCC to standard cuff placement in a matched patient population may contribute to a better understanding of whether TCC has a protective effect. Disclosure No

Organotopic organization of the porcine mid-cervical vagus nerve.

Despite detailed characterization of fascicular organization of somatic nerves, the functional anatomy of fascicles evident in human and large mammal cervical vagus nerve is unknown. The vagus nerve is a prime target for intervention in the field of electroceuticals due to its extensive distribution to the heart, larynx, lungs, and abdominal viscera. However, current practice of the approved vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) technique is to stimulate the entire nerve. This produces indiscriminate stimulation of non-targeted effectors and undesired side effects. Selective neuromodulation is now a possibility with a spatially-selective vagal nerve cuff. However, this requires the knowledge of the fascicular organization at the level of cuff placement to inform selectivity of only the desired target organ or function. We imaged function over milliseconds with fast neural electrical impedance tomography and selective stimulation, and found consistent spatially separated regions within the nerve correlating with the three fascicular groups of interest, suggesting organotopy. This was independently verified with structural imaging by tracing anatomical connections from the end organ with microCT and the development of an anatomical map of the vagus nerve. This confirmed organotopic organization. Here we show, for the first time, localized fascicles in the porcine cervical vagus nerve which map to cardiac, pulmonary and recurrent laryngeal function (N = 4). These findings pave the way for improved outcomes in VNS as unwanted side effects could be reduced by targeted selective stimulation of identified organ-specific fiber-containing fascicles and the extension of this technique clinically beyond the currently approved disorders to treat heart failure, chronic inflammatory disorders, and more.

Management of male stress urinary incontinence in high-risk patients: a narrative review.

The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) remains the gold standard for treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). However, highly complex patients such as those with bulbar urethral compromise, bladder pathology, and lower urinary complications pose a particular challenge for the surgeon. In this article, we will address critical risk factors and synthesize existent data across relevant disease states to support surgeons in successful management of SUI in high-risk patients. A comprehensive review of current literature was performed utilizing the search term "artificial urinary sphincter" in conjunction with any of the following additional terms: "radiation", "urethral stricture", "posterior urethral stenosis", "vesicourethral anastomotic stenosis", "bladder neck contracture", "pelvic fracture urethral injury", "penile revascularization", "inflatable penile prosthesis", and "erosion". Guidance is provided based upon expert opinion where existing literature was sparse or nonexistent. Several known patient risk factors are associated with AUS failure and can ultimately lead to device explantation. Each risk factor requires careful consideration and investigation, or intervention as appropriate, prior to device placement. Optimization of urethral health, confirmation of anatomic and functional stability of the lower urinary tract, and thorough patient counseling are a necessity for these high-risk patients. Several surgical strategies to decrease device complications can be considered: optimization of testosterone, avoidance of 3.5 cm AUS cuff, transcorporal AUS cuff placement, relocation of AUS cuff site, use of lower pressure-regulating balloon, penile revascularization, and intermittent nocturnal deactivation. A number of patient risk factors are associated with AUS failure and can ultimately lead to device explantation. We present an algorithm for management of high-risk patients. Optimization of urethral health, confirmation of anatomic and functional stability of the lower urinary tract, and thorough patient counseling are a necessity for these high-risk patients.

Transalbugineal Artificial Urinary Sphincter: A Refined Implantation Technique to Improve Surgical Outcomes.

The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation is an effective treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (PPI). Still, it may result in troublesome complications such as intraoperative urethral lesion and postoperative erosion. Based on the multilayered structure of the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa, we evaluated an alternative transalbugineal surgical technique of AUS cuff placement with the aim to decrease perioperative morbidity while preserving the integrity of the corpora cavernosa. A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary referral center from September 2012 to October 2021, including 47 consecutive patients undergoing AUS (AMS800®) transalbugineal implantation. At a median (IQR) follow-up of 60 (24-84) months, no intraoperative urethral injury and only one noniatrogenic erosion occurred. The actuarial 12 mo and 5 yr overall erosion-free rates were 95.74% (95% CI: 84.04-98.92) and 91.76% (95% CI: 75.23-97.43), respectively. In preoperatively potent patients, the IIEF-5 score remained unchanged. The social continence (0-1 pads per day) rate was 82.98% (CI 95%: 68.83-91.10) at 12 mos and 76.81% (CI 95%: 60.56-87.04) at 5 yrs follow-up. Our technically refined approach to AUS implantation may help to avoid intraoperative urethral lesions and lower the risk of subsequent erosion without compromising sexual function in potent patients. Prospective and adequately powered studies are necessary to achieve more compelling evidence.

V07-02 URETHRAL BULKING WITH NATIVE TISSUE FOR FRAIL URETHRAS DURING ARTIFICIAL URINARY SPHINCTER SURGERY

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023V07-02 URETHRAL BULKING WITH NATIVE TISSUE FOR FRAIL URETHRAS DURING ARTIFICIAL URINARY SPHINCTER SURGERY William Du Comb, Nora Haney, Matthew Rabinowitz, James Liu, and Arthur Burnett William Du CombWilliam Du Comb More articles by this author , Nora HaneyNora Haney More articles by this author , Matthew RabinowitzMatthew Rabinowitz More articles by this author , James LiuJames Liu More articles by this author , and Arthur BurnettArthur Burnett More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003288.02AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) has long been the ideal surgical treatment option for men with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and has excellent patient satisfaction rates. However, revision rates remain as high as 50%. We describe our use of native periurethral tissue as a urethral bulking technique in patients with frail urethras during AUS surgery. METHODS: An AUS is inserted or revised in the usual standard fashion. The state of the urethral tissue is inspected, and the circumference is measured. When the urethral circumference is less than 4 cm or the urethral tissue is frail, periurethral tissue bulking is performed. Dissection of the bulbospongiosus muscle is carried out at the level of the bulbar urethra, incorporating it with a circumferential measurement. In the event the bulbospongiosus muscle is inadequate for bulking, the proximal corpus spongiosum is mobilized distally as a ventral flap, beneath the circumferential measurement. The AUS size is then selected. RESULTS: Using native periurethral tissue for urethral bulking can add up to 1 cm in cuff size when placing an AUS in patients with frail urethras. Patient satisfaction rates remain high, and there has been no documented device erosion with our technique. CONCLUSIONS: We have demonstrated an alternative approach to urethral bulking with native periurethral tissue in patients undergoing AUS placement who are found to have frail urethras. Urethral bulking with native tissue provides a durable alternative to transcorporal cuff placement or tandem cuffs to establish proper coaptation. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e596 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information William Du Comb More articles by this author Nora Haney More articles by this author Matthew Rabinowitz More articles by this author James Liu More articles by this author Arthur Burnett More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...